Best known for her role as Sally Hardesty in the original 1974 American slasher film, Marilyn also appeared in follow up flicks The Return of the Texas Chainsaw Massacre: The Next Generation (1994) and Texas Chainsaw 3D (2013).

She also played Linda Kasabian, a member of the Charles Manson Family, in Emmy-nominated 1976 TV movie Helter Skelter.

"It is with sad news that I can officially confirm that actress Marilyn Burns passed away earlier today," a representative for the actress said in a statement late last night.

"She was found unresponsive by a family member this morning in her Houston, TX area home. Her family asks for privacy at this time. Further details will be released later."

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She said of her most famous role – the only character to survive Leatherface’s attacks - in 2004: "Afterwards, I was just so grateful it was over.

"I probably was the happiest girl alive.

"I ran through dark woods chased by someone holding a live chainsaw! Where was my head?

"Sure it was tough, but I enjoyed every minute of it. I wouldn't have traded the experience for love or money."

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